The best large-format scanner is one that can scan the document at an efficient scanning speed. There are no specific brands of scanners that are better than others, as long as they have the necessary features to make it easier to scan a document. Large format scanning is needed for those who need to scan large scale images, such as paintings and architectural plans.
There are a lot of different scanners that are currently available on the market. So, which one is the best scanner for scanning large scale images? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular scanners that can help you get better images of your work.
Choosing the best large format scanner in 2023 for your professional needs – If you’ve been frustrated by sifting through various user reviews, internet forums, Reddit threads, and Quora questions in search of the best large format scanner that can meet all of your requirements, this page could be your ideal respite. We have heard a lot of requests from our readers for a scanning beast that can fill in the gaps between quality, affordability, and productivity. But then, we urge you not to judge us for bringing in the term “affordability” here. Usually, large-format scanning devices are a bit on the pricier side. However, we did our best to select them within various budgets where possible.
For your artwork, document scanning, etc., the Best Large Format Scanners in 2023 will be:
As usual, we have written a detailed buying guide at the end of this post with the crests and troughs that are to be considered while picking an ideal guy who does the job right. With our guide, buying the best large format scanners can no longer be a conundrum for you. With that said, let us not waste another minute. I wish we could play a heroic BGM as we introduce our noblemen to you.
#1. Epson E11000XL-GA- Best Large Format Scanner for Graphic Artworks and Photo Scanning
This large-format flatbed scanner from Epson could be your go-to solution if you are in the market for a professional photo scanner.
Epson doesn’t need an introduction in the printing and scanning industry. It has been there for years maturing itself to the comfort of its customers. The Epson E11000XL-GA is one of the most beautiful crafts in the Epson lineup. You should see it in person to believe it. It can accept media up to 12.2″ x 17.2″ large and has a native resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi. With interpolation, it can produce a maximum of 12,800 x 12,800 dpi which is incredible for obtaining greater details in your scans.
Brand | Epson |
Scanner Type | Flatbed color image scanner |
Resolution | 2400 x 4800 dpi |
Features | Windows & Mac OS |
Rating | 4/5 |
The device also boasts the AutoFocus optics system with which the focus of the scans is automatically detected and adjusted to yield optimum scan quality. When it comes to connectivity, the device only has a USB port to be interfaced with an external computer. There’s nothing to complain about the connectivity as the wireless technology on a scanner doesn’t make much of a sense.
Features of – Epson E11000XL-GA Expression Graphic Arts Photo Scanner
Professional Large Format Scanning
The Epson E11000XL-GA Large Format Scanner supports versatile scanning and accepts reflective media up to 12.2″ x 17.2″. This makes this scanner an ideal choice for graphic artists and photographers seeking professional quality tabloid-sized scanning.
Incredible Scan Quality
This scanner is equipped with Micro Step DriveTM technology to produce brilliant clarity and details. It can produce smooth gradations with 48-bit color and can capture over 4 trillion colors and 4,096 shades of gray.
Scan Resolution
This Flatbed large format scanner from Epson boasts a resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi which is great for producing decent quality in your scans.
One-touch color restoration
The Epson’s exclusive Easy Photo Fix™ technology enables the user to restore faded color photos and negatives in a snap while providing automatic dust removal and grain reduction for film scanning.
Batch Scanning
This is a feature block that you can use to highlight features.
Technical Specifications, Pros & Cons of Epson E11000XL-GA
Tech Specs
Brand | Epson |
Model | E11000XL-GA |
Dimensions | 25.8″ x 18″ x 6.2″ (W x D x H) |
Scanner Type | Epson Flatbed color image scanner |
Optical Sensor | Color Epson MatrixCCD™ line sensor |
Resolution | Hardware Resolution: 2400 x 4800 dpi Maximum Resolution: 12800 x 12800 dpi |
Maximum Scan Area | 12.2″ x 17.2″ |
Weight | 28.73 lbs |
Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0 |
Software Tools Included | Epson Scan with Epson Easy Photo Fix™ TechnologyLaserSoft® Imaging SilverFast® Ai and IT8 Target |
Final Review
The Epson E11000XL-GA Expression Graphic Arts Photo Large Format Scanner is an ideal choice for photographers, graphic designers, or those who deal with producing great quality image scans. But considering its price tag, it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. However, if you can afford it, it will not disappoint you for anything. The device can capture over 4 trillion colors and 4,096 shades of gray, making it a beast in the game
#2. Epson Perfection V850 Pro- Best power-packed yet pro-quality Large Format Scanner
The Epson Perfection V850 Pro is one of the affordable yet power-packed versatile large format scanners in the Epson line-up. Let us see why!
The Epson Perfection V850 boasts a dual-lens system that automatically switches its lens to match the case and produce optimal output quality. It can scan at optical resolutions up to 4800dpi for photo scanning and 6400dpi when it comes to scanning using film holders. The device comes included with two sets of high-quality film holders for scanning your negatives.
Brand | Epson |
---|---|
Type | Flatbed Scanner |
Resolution | 4,800x 9,600 dpi |
Features | Dual Lens System |
Rating | 4.1/5 |
This nifty device comes loaded with Digital ICE Technology that cleans-up old films and photos to bring them back to life. It offers excellent tone reproduction with 4.0 DMax optical density. The Epson Perfection V850 is a Good Large-Format Flatbed Scanner is one of the most versatile options available on the market. Compared to most other products in its line-up, this device offers a way more value to your hard-earned money.
Features of -Epson Perfection V850 Pro
Dual Lens System
The lens swaps automatically for the type of media that is fed into the scanner. For slide films, a 6400dpi resolution lens is equipped and for photos, a 4800 dpi lens is used.
Versatility
Speaking of versatility, the Epson V850 Pro large format scanner can be used to scan slides, films, and prints up to 8 x 10”.
Productivity
The device doesn’t even take one second for warming it up. You can start your scanning job almost instantly. This scanner comes with two sets of film holders that enable you to prepare a set of originals for scanning while the first set is still being scanned.
Digital ICE Technology
The Epson Perfection V850 Pro comes equipped with the Digital ICE Technology that automatically removes imperfections such as dust, fingerprints, hair, and scratches from both photos and the film to restore images to the maximum quality possible.
True Tone
The V850 Pro can detect the exact tonal range of the original, assuring the impressive details of the dynamic range. Thanks to its 4.0 DMax optical density.
Technical Specification, Pros & Cons of – Epson Perfection V850 Pro Scanning Model
Tech Specs
Brand | Epson |
Model | Perfection V850 Pro |
Dimensions | 503 x 308 x 152 mm (Width x Depth x Height) |
Scanner Type | Epson Flatbed large format scanner |
Optical Sensor | Matrix CCD with Micro Lens and High Pass Optics |
Resolution (Dual Lens) | Super Resolution Lens: 6,400x 9,600 dpi High Resolution Lens: 4,800x 9,600 dpi |
Maximum Scan Area | 8×10 inch |
Weight | 6.6 kg |
Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0 |
Software Tools Included | Epson Copy Utility, Epson Event Manager, Epson Scan, LaserSoft Imaging™ SilverFast® SEPlus 8, X-Rite i1 Scanner (with IT8 targets) |
Final Review
The Epson Perfection V850 Flatbed scanner is a deal-breaker for the photography freaks out there. You will love this so much especially if you still have your old school photo films lying around your house as this nifty device can also turn your photo films and slides into digital photos. Speaking of the scan quality, the Epson V850 excels here with an impeccable 6400dpi. However, this is only limited to scanning documents of size 8×10 inches. If you don’t go beyond this, this flatbed scanner could be your ideal grab.
#3. HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1- Best Flatbed Large Format Scanner with Auto Document Feeder (ADF)
The HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 Flatbed Scanner can be a decent choice for those who are looking for a good large format flatbed scanner under budget.
If you are serious about your budget and are looking for a decent image and document scanner that just does the job, the HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 large format scanner is an ideal option for you. The product itself is engineered so well to fit your workspace while blending in well with your gear. Speaking of the user-friendliness, this scanner is quite comfortable for routine jobs involving large scanning tasks, thanks to its custom settings option for recurring scan jobs. This device also enables the users to quickly share or archive your scans directly to popular cloud destinations with the aid of HP Scan software.
Brand | HP |
---|---|
Scanner Type | Flatbed OCR Scanner |
Resolution | 1200 dpi |
Features | 2-sided scanning |
Rating | 3.8/5 |
The software department of this scanner is designed really well. Extracting text from your scans (OCR Support) is a cakewalk with this nifty device. The device boasts a 1200 dpi resolution which is adequate for scanning documents and can yield better photo quality. However, you cannot expect this scanner to do wonders, especially if digitizing photos is your only need.
Features Of – HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 Flatbed Scanner
Versatile
The device supports different media sizes – Letter, legal, executive, business cards, 8×12, 6×8, 4×6, 7×10; handles paper sizes up to 122 inches. It can scan to different file formats – PDF, JPEG, PNG, BMP, TIFF, TXT(Text), RTF (Rich Text), and searchable PDF. The media supported are – Paper (banner, inkjet, photo, plain), envelopes, labels, greeting cards, index cards, business cards.
Auto Document Feeder
It comes equipped with a 50 sheet auto document feeder which supports unattended scanning meaning you don’t necessarily feed documents one after the other. Throw a bundle at it and it does the job on its own.
Speed
Scanning speeds are decent with the documents at 20 pages per minute and 40 images per minute with single-pass, 2-sided scanning.
Custom Profiles for recurring jobs
On the HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 large format printer, one can set custom scanning profiles to feed in recurring job tasks. This simplifies your job further.
Design
This nifty piece of hardware is engineered so well to sit comfortably on most workspaces and can blend in really well with your desk setup. The build quality feels sturdy and can run for ages.
Technical Specifications, Pros & Cons of HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1
Brand | HP |
Model | ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 |
Dimensions | 451 x 351 x 122 mm |
Scanner Type | HP Flatbed large format scanner |
Optical Sensor | CMOS CIS (Contact Image Sensor) |
Max Resolution | 1200 dpi |
Supported Media Size | A4; A5; A6; B5; B5 (JIS) |
Weight | 4.3 kg |
Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0 |
Software Tools Included | HP Scanner Device Driver, HP WIA Scan Driver, HP TWAIN Scan Driver (Certified),HP Scan, HP Scanner Tools Utility, HP Event (Button) Handler, HP WindowsInstaller, I.R.I.S. Readiris Pro, I.R.I.S. Cardiris, Nuance PaperPort, ArcSoftPhotoStudio, SDK (Software Development Kit), LPDF (file with a link to downloadsoftware), no Mac software on CD |
Final Verdict
Usually, the flatbed scanners are a bit pricey especially if you wish for a scanner with higher resolution capabilities. Whereas the HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 is one of the most affordable options and does its job really well. You will not be disappointed if scanning large documents is your only requirement. For the price, it is being offered at, it is just doing justice in case of images. However, you cannot expect this to extreme wonders with your images but trust me, you cannot complain.
#4. Epson WorkForce DS-50000-Best Large Format Flatbed Document Scanner
The Epson DS-50000 large format flatbed scanner is a blend of quality, versatility, and productivity.
Scanning a number of documents is now made easy with the Epson DS-50000 large format scanner. It can scan documents as small as a business card and as large as 11.7″ x 17″. The 4-line CCD sensor on this device can yield vivid colors, crisp and sharper text in your scans. The device comes with a software tool that lets you upload your scans directly to popular cloud services like SharePoint, Evernote, Google Docs, and more. It comes with TWAIN and ISIS drivers for cross-compatibility.
Brand | Epson |
Type | Flatbed Scanner |
Resolution | 600 dpi x 600 dpi |
Features | Custom profiles for recurring tasks |
Rating | 4.9/5 |
The device comes with an optional Network Scan Module which enables wireless functionality to scan remotely. It also comes with a bunch of other software that can extract text from your scanned documents (OCR) and make your documents searchable. That means you can search the documents using their contents. This feature really comes handy when you have a heck lot of scanned stuff and you wish to find one in specific.
Features of Epson DS-50000 – Large Format Flatbed Document Scanner
Scan Quality
With the Epson DS-50000 large format document scanner, one can achieve exceptional scan quality, thanks to its 4-line CCD sensor. The device is capable of producing sharp text, crisp and vivid graphics in your scans.
Versatility
This is one of the most versatile options that you can get in this price bracket. It can scan documents up to 11.7″ x 17″ which is decent for a large format flatbed scanner. There is a provision for storing your scanned documents to searchable PDFs. One can opt for an additional networking module to add wireless capabilities to this device.
Build and design
From the first look, the device feels elegant and sturdy and seems promising to last longer. Considering its large format scanning capabilities, the Epson DS-50000 feels compact and is engineered well to fit most workspaces.
Resolution
The color CCD 4-line sensor on this device can produce a resolution of 600 dpi x 600 dpi which is adequate for scanning documents.
Productivity
Using the One-touch scanning option, one can create up to 30 user-programmable jobs for convenient operation. The device comes with a lot of included software – EPSON® Scan, Document Capture Pro (Windows only), and ABBYY® FineReader® Sprint OCR. Scanning to popular cloud services is a click away using the dedicated PC software.
Technical Specifications, Pros & Cons of Epson WorkForce DS-50000
Tech Spec
Brand | Epson |
Model | DS-50000 |
Dimensions | 25.2″ x 18.5″ x 6.2″ |
Scanner Type | Flatbed color image scanner |
Optical Sensor | CCD 4-line sensor (RGB & black) |
Max Resolution | 600 dpi x 600 dpi |
Supported Document Size | Up to 11.7″ x 17″ |
Weight | 32.6 lb |
Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Optional network Adapter |
Software Tools Included | Epson Scan, Document Capture Pro with Scan to Cloudfunctionality (Windows only), ABBYY FineReader Sprint |
Supported Drivers | TWAIN, EMC ISIS (web distribution) |
Final Review
The Epson DS-50000 is a decent choice especially if you got a lot of large-format text documents to scan. Built quality on this device is top-notch and can withstand large volumes of scan jobs. For a 600 dpi sensor, the scan quality for images came out surprisingly good but then you cannot expect to produce professional-grade results. If scanning graphical content isn’t your cup of tea, this could be your ideal choice. The other laid down is that there is no auto document feeder on this device. For the price it is being offered, the Epson should at least have thought of incorporating a 50 sheet ADF on this. However, if you can afford, we strongly recommend you to go for the Epson DS-60000 or the Epson-70000 with 200 ADF capacity.
#5. Epson Expression 12000XL-PH- Best Professional large-format scanning Scanner
The Epson Expression 12000XL-PH large-format photo scanner is one of the greatest inventions from the Epson line-up.
There are professional large-format scanners in the market then there is the Epson 12000XL-PH Flatbed large format scanner specifically designed for the graphic enthusiasts. With the aid of this scanner, one can produce stunning large-format scans at incredible quality and detail, thanks to the Epson MatrixCCD technology. This large-format photo scanner can scan documents up to 12.2″ x 17.2″, plus slides, negatives, and transparency strips.
Brand | Epson |
---|---|
Type | Flatbed Photo Scanner |
Resolution | 2400 x 4800 dpi |
Features | One-Touch Color Restoration |
Rating | 3.4/5 |
It can scan at a resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi and has a 3.8 Dmax for brilliant clarity and detail. Above everything, the device is very user-friendly, and setting it up doesn’t take much time. Easy Photo Fix® technology offers one-touch restoration for faded color photos and negatives — plus automatic dust removal and grain reduction.
Features of – Epson Expression 12000XL-PH Flatbed Scan
Versatility
The Epson Expression 12000XL-PH large format scanner features a high-performance Transparency Unit for slide and negative batch scanning and is designed for professional photographers for producing professional photo scans to reproduce great details.
Resolution
The device boasts an impeccable scan resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi which is adequate for producing the rich details in your scanned documents, thanks to the Epson MatricCCD technology.
Productivity
Now scan multiple printed images at a time using the batch scan feature of the Epson 12000XL-PH. The device warms up quickly and will be up and running as soon as you turn it on.
Build and Design
Like any other Epson devices, the Epson 12000XL-PH large format flatbed scanner is built very well to last longer and withstand a heavy
One-Touch Color Restoration
With Epson’s exclusive Easy Photo Fix Technology, restoration of faded color photos and negatives is a cakewalk. The device also offers automatic dust removal and grain reduction for film scanning.
Technical Specifications, Pros & Cons of – Epson Expression 12000XL-PH Flatbed Scanning Device
Tech Specs
Brand | Epson |
Model | Expression 12000XL-PH |
Dimensions | 25.8 x 18.1 x 8.5 inches |
Scanner Type | Flatbed color image scanner |
Optical Sensor | Color Epson MatrixCCD line sensor |
Max Resolution | 2400 x 4800 dpi |
Maximum Scan Area | 12.2″ x 17.2″ |
Weight | 31.5 lb |
Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0, Optional network Adapter |
Software Tools Included | Epson Scan with Easy Photo Fix Technology, LaserSoft Imaging SilverFast Ai and 2x IT8 targets: (1) Reflective 5″ x 7″, (1) Transparency 4″ x 5″ |
Supported Drivers | TWAIN, EMC ISIS (web distribution) |
Final Verdict
The Epson Expression 12000XL-PH large format flatbed scanner is designed especially for photo enthusiasts. It can produce high-quality scans at a massive 2400 x 4800 dpi resolution. On the more, you can use it to digitize the old school slides or negatives. The batch scanning feature comes to play especially when you have to scan a number of photos. However, there are some laid downs, especially for the price tag at which this device is offered.
#6. Xerox DocuMate 3220-Duplex, large-format Document Scanner
The Xerox DocuMate 3220 is one of the good if not the best affordable large-format scanners available on the market.
Don’t let the size of the Xerox DocuMate 3220 scanner fool you. The device is engineered so well with smaller footprints to sit comfortably on most desks. It is probably the most affordable large format scanner available on the market. From plastic ID cards to large format documents, the device can scan everything that you throw at it. The maximum acceptable size is 9.5” x 118” which is incredible. It can scan your documents at a speed of 40 ppm/80 ipm@300 dpi and 60 ppm/120 ipm@200 dpi.
Brand | Xerox |
Type | Duplex Scanner |
Resolution | 600 dpi |
Features | Impeccable Scanning Speed |
Rating | 3.4 |
The device is very versatile and can accept different types of media from plastic ID cards, insurance cards to paper documents using the auto document feeder. It has an auto document feeder capacity of 80 pages which can yield greater productivity and has a duty cycle of 9000 pages a day.
Features of – Xerox DocuMate 6440 Duplex Scanner with Document Feeder
Versatility
The Xerox DocuMate 6440 large format document scanner tops the race when it comes to versatility with acceptance to a wide media formats ranging from plastic ID cards to large documents, it has everything in its bag for your needs.
Impeccable Scanning Speed
It can scan a whooping 40 pages per minute or 80 inches per minute at 300dpi. While it can scan at 60 ppm/120ipm at 200 dpi.
Quality
The scanning quality for text documents is decent while it struggles when it comes to scanning images. However, it isn’t intended for higher graphics.
Build and design
The design and quality aren’t exceptional but is acceptable for the price at which this is offered. It seems promising for larger work volumes. It has a daily duty cycle of 9,000 pages.
Software tools
Like most other large format scanners, the Xerox DocuMate 6440 also comes with a software bundle that can enhance your scanning experience and offers you a tonne of other features.
Technical SPecifications, Pros & Cons of Xerox DocuMate 6440 Duplex Scan
Tech Specs
Brand | Xerox |
Model | DocuMate 6440 |
Dimensions | 12.50 x 9.40 x 26.80 inches |
Scanner Type | Duplex Automatic Document Feeder |
Optical Sensor | CCD (Charge Coupled Device) |
Max Resolution | 600 dpi |
Maximum Scan Area | 8.5” x 118” @200 dpi |
Weight | 9.2 lbs |
Connectivity | Hi-Speed USB 2.0 |
Software Tools Included | ABBYY FineReader OCR Software |
Supported Drivers | TWAIN, ISIS, WIA |
Final Review
The Xerox DocuMate 6440 large format scanner is ideal for scanning documents containing text. It isn’t meant to scan high-quality photos. However, you can still scan them at the cost of quality. The design and build quality are decent for the price you pay. A lot of users are complaining about issues with the MAC. However, in our testing, it worked nearly fine.
Things You Need to Consider While Choosing the Best Large Format Scanners 2023-Buying Guide
Kudos for making it here! Now that you got to know what to choose, let us also understand how to choose. When it comes to Good large format scanner, a cheap 200$ machine and a beasty 3000$ machine does the same job but with many fractional differences in almost all aspects. These differences might be small but cumulatively they contribute to a greater impact as a wise man once said, Small things make perfection, but perfection isn’t a small thing. As long as we (Scanse) are live on the internet, we will not let those small things take over your perfection.
So, let us begin with understanding the things that contribute to perfection when it comes to large format scanning.
Scanner Resolution –
Resolution is the most important aspect of a scanner. The quality of your scanned document is directly proportional to its resolution. However, the resolution is further categorized into three, based on the type. The optical resolution, Hardware resolution, and the Interpolated resolution.
Optical resolution:
It is the actual number of pixels that are read by the sensor of your scanner. In other words, this is the measure of the intensity of the light that is reflected from the image which is being scanned. This is then converted into an analog voltage which is processed to digitally replicate the original scanned image. Optical resolution is usually given in a single number say 600 dpi as it is related to the amount of detail the sensor can capture horizontally.
Hardware resolution:
It is the pixels obtained by the sensor by double-stepping or quadruple-stepping of the carriage using a precision stepper motor. For instance, a scanner has an optical resolution of 600 dpi and a hardware resolution of 600 x 1200 dpi (it is because of double-stepping the carriage in order to increase the vertical resolution). In coarse words, the hardware resolution is related to the quality of detail that can be captured vertically by increasing the carriage.
Interpolated Resolution or Maximum Resolution:
Interpolation is a technique to increase the resolution of an image using a complex algorithm. They do not add any further detail to the original scan, it simply adds (gradient) pixels based on the mathematical probability of surrounding pixels, horizontally/vertically. Usually, the fancy resolution numerical that we see in the product description of scanners is of the interpolated resolution/maximum resolution. Speaking of facts, the interpolated resolution doesn’t add much much to your scan.
Pixel Depth –
We know that the image is captured in terms of pixels and we also know that the resolution means the measure of pixels horizontally and vertically. If the hardware resolution of a scanner is 1200 x 2400 dpi, it means that the sensor has captured data of 1200 horizontal pixels and 2400 vertical pixels. The data of each pixel is captured in terms of bits. Now, the number of bits of data captured for each pixel is called pixel depth. Each pixel can have two states (On or Off); therefore, the number of grayscales or colors that a scanner can recognize is computed by taking the pixel depth as an exponent of two. The chart below lists the number of colors recognized for each different scan mode.
Scan Mode | No. of colors recognized |
Bi-level (1 bit per pixel) | 21 = 2 colors (black and white) |
8-bit grayscale | 28 = 256 shades of gray |
10-bit grayscale | 210 = 1,024 shades of gray |
8-bit color (indexed color) | 28 = 256 colors |
24-bit RGB (8 bits per pixel, per color) | 224 = 16.7 million colors |
36-bit RGB (12 bits per pixel, per color) | 236 = Over 68 billion colors |
48-bit RGB (16 bits per pixel, per color) | 248 = Over 250 trillion colors |
In simple terms, more bits means more colors and better quality in your scans.
Dynamic Range –
Dynamic range is the measurement of the difference between the lightest highlights and darkest shadows that a scanner can perceive. While going through our recommended scanners, you might have come across the term Dmax many a time. Dmax refers to the maximum density rating of an image. A high dynamic range can yield superior quality scans with detailed highlights and shadows especially when scanning transparent media.
Scanner Flexibility –
Some scanners come with special features like supporting color negatives (such as 35mm negative strips) to convert them into digital photos while some scanners only support positive transparent media, such as color transparencies and slides. Some scanners come with optional network cards while some are already equipped. Most scanners come with one-touch color restoration technology. It is entirely the user’s interest to choose a scanner for your need and liking.
Flatbed Vs Sheetfed Scanners –
The sheetfed scanners are also called Automatic Document Feeder scanners wherein the document is fed automatically into the scanner. These scanners are ideal for scanning documents and loose papers. They can handle large scan jobs like a boss. However, the sheetfed scanners are not recommended for scanning photos, images, and other graphical stuff. That is where the flatbed scanners come to play. The flatbed scanners can yield stunning scan qualities especially in the case of images and photos. But one can only scan one document at a time manually feeding them one after the other.
Scanning Speeds –
Scanning speeds do matter especially when you have to scan a lot every day. Usually, the sheetfed scanners are way faster as they come with auto document feeder technology and don’t require manually feeding documents one after the other. Just throw a bunch of documents and it does the job for you.
Connectivity –
Almost every large format scanner that you find on the market comes with a traditional USB 2.0 port. However, some models do have a provision to opt for an optional network adapter while some come with a built-in network interface. But, a wireless interface on a scanner doesn’t make much sense.
Software Tools –
Software is key for any scanner as everything the sensor reads should be soft-processed to achieve optimum quality. A bunch of other features like OCR can be incorporated using the software. From correction to cloud support, the software has everything in its bag for you. Apart from the utility software that you get with your device, there are a bunch of trusted third party software tools that can take your productivity to the next level.
Scanner Technology –
With the advancement of technology, we have been numerous iterations ahead of the crude ways used in the earlier ages. The refined technology left us with two widely used sensor technologies namely, Contact Image Sensors (CIS) and Charge Coupled Device (CCD).
Contact Image Sensors:
Contact Image Sensor which is commonly known as CIS is an integrated module containing a light source, fiber optic lens array, CIS sensor array, and an analog to digital converter. The module itself is very close to the document surface, usually, less than half an inch so is the name – Contact Image Sensor. Coming to its operation, the LEDs on the sensor pulses one at a time – red, green, and blue. With each pulse, the source light bounces off the document, through the lenses, and onto the surface of the CIS sensors. Each element in the sensor then generates a voltage equal to the amount of light received. This analog voltage signal is then digitized by the analog to digital converter present in the module.
The voltage thus digitalized will form an image replicating the document that is scanned. However, there are some laid downs with CIS technology. The lightwave bandwidth of an LED is very narrow thereby limiting the gamut. Also, as the elements are close, there is a limit in the depth of focus. This will result in the degradation of the overall image quality.
Charge-Coupled Devices:
Charge-Coupled Devices are otherwise known as CCDs. They contain five main components namely,
- The light source – traditionally this has been fluorescent but some manufacturers are now using LEDs.
- Mirrors – These help in guiding the reflected light.
- A focusing lens – these help in focusing the reflected light onto the sensors.
- CCD Sensors – the CCD sensors will capture the focused light
- Analog-to-digital converter.
Its operation mechanism is little complex compared to that of the Contact Image Sensors. The fluorescent light shining on the document is reflected onto a series of mirrors, through a focusing lens which finally falls on the surface of the CCD sensor. The sensor then generates an analog voltage proportional to the amount of light received. This voltage is sent to the analog-to-digital converter which is then digitized.
The CCD technology can produce wide color gamut as the light source used is of a fluorescent lamp. This can yield high focus depths and overall image quality.
Serviceability –
This is yet another important factor to be considered while looking at buying a large format scanner. Most renowned brands on the market offer wide serviceability. However, brands that have joined recently in the play have limited-service centers and support. It is advised to go with the brands which are on the market for quite some time.
FAQs: About Large Format Scanning Devices
Scanning artworks demands a large format scanner with a decent resolution. The Epson Expression 12000XL-PH large-format photo scanner is specifically designed to handle high graphics. It has got a decent optical resolution and a good Dmax value to help you yield the best out of your photos. For more details read our complete review on the Epson Expression 12000XL-PH on our website.
Sheetfed scanners come to your rescue especially if you have a lot of scan jobs to deal with as they come equipped with auto document feeder capability. However, if your quality is your preference and you wouldn’t mind manually feeding the documents to the scanner, a large format flatbed scanner can be your champion.
Speaking of versatility, the Epson Perfection V850 Pro Large-format Scanner can be an ideal investment as it has support for different media from paper to film. When it comes to scanning quality, it is one of the best scanners that your money could afford.
None of the large format scanners on this page are actually large format scanners. You’re wasting people’s time.